Key facts
Duration
The time and cost can be reduced based on your previous qualifications and professional experience. This means you can fast track the masters degree from 2 years down to 1.5 years duration. See entry requirements below for more information.
Locations
Course overview
Take a significant step forward in your career with our Master of Nutrition and Population Health, designed to equip you with advanced knowledge and practical skills to excel as a nutritionist in diverse employment settings. Whether you’re passionate about improving individual health or addressing broader public health challenges, this course will prepare you to make a meaningful impact.
By integrating content from public health, food science, biochemistry, physiology, epidemiology, psychology, sociology, and policy, we provide a holistic understanding of human nutrition and population health. This multidisciplinary approach ensures you graduate with the expertise to respond to real-world health issues with confidence.
Are you eager to understand the intricate relationships between food, nutrition, and human behaviour?
Our program delves into the biological, social, and policy-related aspects of nutrition, helping you to address complex nutritional challenges and promote health and well-being across various populations. You'll explore human nutrient requirements, digestion, absorption, and metabolism, and learn about the roles of macronutrients and micronutrients in maintaining health. Additionally, you'll gain insights into the social, psychological, and biological determinants of food choice and consumption, equipping you with strategies to influence dietary behaviours from both public health and industry perspectives.
Throughout the course, you'll cover the nutritional needs at different life stages, from pregnancy and infancy to aging, and identify intervention strategies to address nutritional issues across the lifespan. You'll develop skills to design, evaluate, and interpret nutrition research studies, gaining expertise in qualitative, quantitative, and observational research methodologies, and understanding the ethical principles of human research.
You'll acquire theoretical knowledge and practical skills in food science, including food safety, preservation, regulation, and innovations for improving nutrition and health. Learn methods to measure food intake, physical activity, energy expenditure, and body composition, and engage in practical activities to analyse and interpret nutritional and physical activity data.
Explore the epidemiology of nutrition-related diseases in developed and developing countries, understanding the impact of international agreements on food production, distribution, and security. Develop skills to design and evaluate nutrition policies and interventions, applying nutrition, behavioural, and social science approaches to prevent and address population health problems.
Our program emphasises current concepts and strategies in nutrition promotion, including communication models, education, and policy evaluation. You will understand the theories of behavioural influence and change, and analyse policies that shape food systems and their impact on health and sustainability. Study food policy case studies and understand the role of evidence and politics in policy-making.
Develop a systems thinking approach to understand and intervene in major nutrition-related problems. Apply key methods and approaches in systems thinking to public health nutrition policy and programs. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the obesity epidemic from a population health perspective, learning to develop, implement, and evaluate obesity prevention programs at the community and population levels.
You may also choose an elective that aligns with your specific nutrition interests. One of these elective options is our work-integrated Postgraduate Nutrition Practicum, which provides authentic real-world experience. This practicum allows you to develop professional skills through a minimum of 100 hours in a work-based setting, preparing you for a successful career in nutrition and population health.
Join us in the Master of Nutrition and Population Health program and become a leader in promoting health and well-being through nutrition. With a strong foundation in research, practical skills, and a global perspective, you will be well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in the growing field of nutrition and population health.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 21 June 2026
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Master of Nutrition and Population Health
- Year
2026 course information
- Deakin code
- H748
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 092729G Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Higher Degree Coursework (Masters and Doctorates)
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9
ACHIEVE WORK-LIFE BALANCE AT THE #1 VICTORIAN UNI FOR COURSE SATISFACTION
Course structure
To complete the Master of Nutrition and Population Health, you must pass 8, 12 or 16 credit points. The number of credit points required may vary, depending on your entry point or how much credit you receive as recognition of prior learning (RPL) based on your professional experience and previous qualifications.
A 16-credit point Master of Nutrition and Population Health includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in their first study period
- 15 credit points of core units
- 1 credit point of course electives
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Note:
- Trimester 3 is a compulsory study period for all H748 international students in order to enable students to complete units in the required sequence and complete the course within the specified course duration of their Confirmation of Enrolment
Course structure applies for students who commenced in 2026 onwards. Students who commenced prior to 2026 should refer to previous online Handbooks or contact a contact a Student Adviser in Student Central.
Please refer to the Course Map page for course map information.
Students must enrol in the Burwood (Melbourne) offerings of all units
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Year 1 - Trimester 3
Year 2 - Trimester 1
Year 2 - Trimester 2
Elective units:
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Start date: July
- Available at:
Burwood (Melbourne)
Delivery of course content will be flexible and all unit content will be available in CloudDeakin; learning modules will consist of recorded cloud concepts available in CloudDeakin. Learning activities in each unit will be further supported by face to face learning activities with academic staff.
All units within this course structure are core and all will include the required 22 hours of on-campus study. The on campus delivery methods will vary by unit but include either of the following:
- Addition of 2 hours per week of seminars to the existing learning experiences
- Intensive interactive workshops across the trimester.
These on campus learning activities complement the existing high quality online delivered learning experiences which include the use of video, articulate storylines, screen captures and videonote already established within these units.
Alternative exits
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Mandatory student checks
Applicable only to students undertaking practicum units, who will therefore require a Working With Children Check. Not mandatory for all students.
Workload
As a student in the Faculty of Health you can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals, placements and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time. Teaching, placements and assessment tasks may take place outside of Deakin University teaching periods.
Each unit will require 11-13 study hours per week that may include some or all of the following: guided learning with online learning resources, participation in online seminars, individual study, research of the nutrition literature, learning activities in the workplace, assessment activities and participation in online discussions. Each unit will be further supported by face to face learning activities on campus with academic staff.
Participation requirements
International students must attend the seminars at a campus to fulfil their visa requirements.
Students are required to complete units in Trimester 3.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
Depending on your professional experience and previous qualifications, you may commence this course with admission credit and complete your course in 1.5 years full-time (or part-time equivalent).
1.5 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) - 12 credit points
To be considered for admission to this degree (with 4 credit points of admission credit applied*) you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:
- completion of a bachelor degree or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a bachelor degree or higher in any discipline, and at least two years' of relevant work experience (or part-time equivalent)
2 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) - 16 credit points
To be considered for admission to this degree (without admission credit applied*) you will need to meet the following criteria:
- completion of a bachelor degree or higher in any discipline
*Recognition of prior learning will still be considered on a case-by-case basis. Learn more below.
Examples of related disciplines include, but not limited to: Nutrition science
Examples of relevant work experience include, but not limited to: Working in a nutrition-related field, or have a food-focussed role. Regardless of the nutrition-related role, to qualify they also must be supervised by a qualified nutritionist or dietitian
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- bachelor degree from a recognised English-speaking country
- IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) in each component of test
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin postgraduate study? Postgraduate study doesn’t have to be a balancing act; we provide flexible course entry and exit options based on your desired career outcomes and the time you are able to commit to your study.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning.
Applicants who have completed a Bachelor degree or higher in a related discipline (for e.g. Bachelor of Nutrition Science or Bachelor of Nutrition Science - Honours) may receive up to 4 credits towards this course and therefore will only be required to complete 12 credit points. The Course Director will review and approve the credits based on the relevant studies completed within the Bachelor or Honours degree.
Please note: International students receive credits for this course which results in undertaking less than 2 years study period, may not be eligible to apply for the ‘Skilled-Graduate (Temporary) visa (Subclass 485)’ upon graduating from this course. For more information about this visa, please refer to Temporary Graduate visa webpage.
You can refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
$31,600 for 1 yr full-time - Full-fee paying place
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
The available fee places for this course are detailed above. Not all courses at Deakin have Commonwealth supported places available.
The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
One year full-time study load is typically represented by eight credit points of study. Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight credit points of a typical combination of units for your course.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook. Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Higher Education Loan Program
Take the next step towards your ultimate degree with a Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) loan to help pay your tuition fees.
You may be eligible for a HELP loan – including FEE-HELP or HECS-HELP – depending on your course, type of fee place, and your citizenship or residency status. Check your eligibility and learn more about Government HELP loans.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship can open the door to new opportunities. Whether you have something unique to offer or simply need a bit of extra support to reach your goals, we’re here to help. Scholarships can assist with course fees, living costs and study materials – so you can focus on achieving your best. Explore the range of opportunities and find the right fit for you.
Postgraduate bursary
We love welcoming Deakin alumni back to continue their journey with us. If you're starting a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible for a 10% discount on your enrolment fees, applied per unit. It's our way of supporting your next step.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Need more information on how to apply?
For more information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply webpage. If you're still having problems, please contact us for assistance.
Pathways
This course does not provide a pathway to higher degree by research.
Career outcomes
With rising rates of chronic illness, food insecurity and health inequity, the need for population-focused nutrition strategies has never been greater. There is growing demand for professionals who understand how to design, implement and evaluate nutrition interventions that support the health of entire communities. At Deakin, you will be learning from Australia’s top-ranked university for nutrition science research^, so you can be confident your skills are grounded in the latest evidence.
The Master of Nutrition and Population Health prepares you to step into this space with confidence. Whether you are already working in public health or planning a career change, this course equips you with practical skills in health promotion, program evaluation and research translation – all underpinned by a strong foundation in human nutrition.
There is increasing demand for professionals who can share reliable, evidence-based nutrition knowledge. In fact, jobs in nutrition are projected to grow by 15.6% over the five years to 2029.*
As a graduate of this course, you will be well placed to pursue meaningful roles across a wide range of sectors. These include government departments, non-government organisations (NGOs), community agencies, food industry settings and consultancy work. You might work in areas such as:
- developing or managing public health and nutrition programs
- designing policies or guidelines that promote healthy eating
- evaluating community-based food and nutrition initiatives
- contributing to food sustainability and access strategies
- consulting for organisations on nutrition-related projects
Learn more about careers in nutrition.
* 2024 Employment Projections – for the five years to 2029, Australian Government, Jobs and Skills Australia
^ The Australian’s 2025 Research Magazine
Professional recognition
Growing public interest in the relationship between diet and health is evident and, as a result, there are increasing demands from the public for reliable and trustworthy information. In response, the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA) has developed a ‘Register of Nutritionists’ to establish a list of appropriately qualified nutrition professionals.
As a graduate of this course, you may be eligible for registration as an ‘Associate Nutritionist’. Following three years of relevant work experience, Associate Nutritionists are able to apply for ‘Registered Nutritionist’ status. Registration with NSA does not authorise registrants to obtain provider numbers with Medicare or Private Health Insurers. Please refer to the Nutrition Society of Australia website for further information or queries about registration.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Apply food and nutrition and health knowledge from a range of perspectives. |
| Communication | Select and use a variety of engaging communication modes to disseminate knowledge to individuals, groups, government and non-government organisations and health professionals. |
| Digital literacy | Select and use appropriate technologies to source, understand, evaluate, and communicate information to professional networks and communities. |
| Critical thinking | Source and critically analyse the food and nutrition literature to apply an evidence-based approach to the field. |
| Problem solving | Identify and apply practical solutions to a range of changing and complex food and nutrition and health issues. |
| Self-management | Employ self-directed, reflective work and learning practices in a responsible manner to professionally contribute to food and nutrition sciences. |
| Teamwork | Work collaboratively as part of interdisciplinary teams with a range of stakeholders to advance the field of food and nutrition sciences. |
| Global citizenship | Engage in professional and ethical practice that demonstrates awareness of, and adaptability to, diverse social, cultural and environmental contexts in food and nutrition sciences. |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
